Scribd
Upload
3 views2 pages

Devotional Paths UPSC Notes

The document outlines the development of Bhakti and Sufi movements from the 8th to 17th century CE as alternatives to traditional religious practices, emphasizing personal devotion to a Supreme God. It highlights key figures and traditions, including the Nayanars, Alvars, and Sufi mystics, as well as the contributions of saints like Kabir and Guru Nanak. Common themes include anti-caste sentiments, rejection of ritualism, and the promotion of equality and service across various regions in India.

Uploaded by

khushichauhan4215
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
3 views2 pages

Devotional Paths UPSC Notes

The document outlines the development of Bhakti and Sufi movements from the 8th to 17th century CE as alternatives to traditional religious practices, emphasizing personal devotion to a Supreme God. It highlights key figures and traditions, including the Nayanars, Alvars, and Sufi mystics, as well as the contributions of saints like Kabir and Guru Nanak. Common themes include anti-caste sentiments, rejection of ritualism, and the promotion of equality and service across various regions in India.

Uploaded by

khushichauhan4215
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 2

Devotional Paths to the Divine - UPSC Notes

1. Background:

- Time Period: 8th to 17th century CE.

- Bhakti and Sufi movements arose as alternatives to ritualistic and hierarchical religion.

2. Supreme God & Bhakti:

- Belief in one Supreme God.

- Emphasized personal devotion (bhakti) over ritualism.

3. Puranic Tradition:

- Shiva, Vishnu, Durga worship mainstreamed.

- Puranas promoted bhakti across castes.

4. South Indian Bhakti:

- Nayanars (Shaiva) and Alvars (Vaishnava).

- Tevaram and Divya Prabandham are major compilations.

5. Philosophical Bhakti:

- Shankaracharya: Advaita (non-dualism).

- Ramanuja: Vishishtadvaita (qualified monism).

6. Virashaivism:

- Basavanna rejected caste and idol worship.

- Lingayat movement; vachanas (sayings).

7. Saints of Maharashtra:
- Tukaram, Namdev, etc. Emphasized equality and service.

- Vitthala worship, Varkari tradition.

8. Nathpanthis, Siddhas, Yogis:

- Anti-ritual, focused on yoga, meditation.

9. Sufism:

- Sufi mystics emphasized love and equality.

- Famous orders: Chishti, Suhrawardi.

10. Bhakti in North India:

- Kabir: Nirguna bhakti, formless God.

- Mirabai: Krishna devotion, bhajans.

- Tulsidas & Surdas: Devotional poetry.

- Shankaradeva (Assam): Namghars, Eka Sharana Dharma.

11. Guru Nanak & Sikhism:

- One God, social equality.

- Guru Granth Sahib, Langar, Khalsa.

UPSC Facts:

- First Bhakti Movement: Alvars & Nayanars.

- Bhakti literature in local languages.

- Common themes: anti-caste, anti-ritualism, personal devotion.

You might also like